Five Ways to Save on Summer Shipping for Your Small Business

Summer is the peak season for more than just sunshine—consumer demands rise, promotions heat up, and online orders surge. But for small businesses, increased shipping volume can also mean rising costs, unexpected delays, and customer service headaches.

At Boundr, we know international shipping can get expensive fast. So, whether you're sending summer kits, skincare, apparel, or seasonal promos abroad, here are five practical ways to keep your summer shipping costs under control, without cutting corners. 

Bundle Orders—Smartly

Bundling products into a single shipment is one of the most effective ways to reduce shipping costs. However, smart bundling goes beyond simply tossing everything into one box—weight, dimensions, and item compatibility are also important considerations.

Tip: Group items that travel well together. Separate fragile or sensitive products within the box to prevent damage and avoid repacking fees. Avoid mixing incompatible items, such as sprays and liquids, which may trigger customs issues or courier restrictions.

✅ Save by reducing the number of packages you send without increasing risk.

Choose Lightweight Packaging Materials

Summer products often come in heavy packaging, but international shipping charges are heavily influenced by both dimensional and actual weight.

Tip: Opt for light, protective alternatives like bubble mailers, poly bags, or corrugated inserts instead of bulky boxes. This small change can make a big difference in cost.

✅ Save by trimming weight and avoiding dimensional surcharges. 

Double-Check Item Descriptions

Vague or misleading item names, such as "gift set" or "assorted accessories," can slow down customs processing or trigger extra inspections. Clear, accurate descriptions help ensure smoother handling, both in warehouses and at borders.

Tip: Be descriptive and specific. Include material types, item categories, or intended use (e.g., “cotton sarong wrap” instead of “summer fabric”).

✅ Save by avoiding customs delays and return-to-sender fees.

Avoid Known Problem Items

Summer products, such as aerosols, perfumes, and flammable goods, often fall under the Dangerous Goods (DG) classification. These require special handling, or may not be allowed at all by certain couriers.

Tip: Before shipping, review our Prohibited and Restricted Goods list and consult product labels for keywords like “flammable,” “pressurized,” or “aerosol.” If you’re unsure, our support team can help clarify whether the item is eligible for shipment.

✅ Save by skipping costly returns or storage for non-compliant goods.

Ship Sooner, Not Last-Minute

Summer brings longer transit times, customs backlogs, and weather-related delays. Waiting until the last minute to ship can force you into paying premium rates for express services or risk missing delivery windows altogether.

Tip: Build in extra time for international delivery by shipping early in your sales cycle. Let customers know about realistic delivery windows upfront to reduce pressure and maintain satisfaction.

✅ Save by avoiding rush shipping charges and costly resends due to late arrivals.

Summer Shipping Doesn't Have to Sizzle Your Budget

Shipping internationally as a small business doesn’t have to be complex—or expensive. With a bit of planning and smarter packing strategies, you can keep your summer operations smooth and affordable.

Boundr is here to support you with tools and tips that make cross-border shipping easier, even when it’s hot out. 🌍📦

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